-ive
suffix
UK/-ɪv/US/-ɪv/
A suffix used to form adjectives indicating a tendency, nature, or quality (e.g., active, creative, decisive). It often suggests 'having the property of' or 'tending to.'
Example Sentences
The suffix '-ive' often appears in adjectives describing a quality, like 'active' or 'passive.'
When you see '-ive' at the end of a word, it frequently conveys a disposition or tendency.
Creative people display originality, a hallmark of the '-ive' suffix indicating a quality or characteristic.
Being decisive means having the tendency to make clear and firm decisions, illustrating the '-ive' concept of a defining trait.
Adjectives ending in '-ive' can highlight the nature of something, as in 'explosive,' pointing to its inherent capacity to explode.
In language, '-ive' signifies an attribute, which explains why words like 'talkative' reflect a person’s inclination to talk.
Many '-ive' adjectives reveal something about a person's or thing’s essential behavior or function, underscoring its role in shaping descriptive vocabulary and clarifying meaning in both formal and informal contexts.
Words such as 'intuitive,' 'responsive,' and 'innovative' demonstrate how '-ive' endows a sense of possessing or showing a certain quality, making it a versatile and widely used suffix in English.
How to Use
Creates adjectives denoting tendency, quality, or capacity related to an action.Use '-ive' to form adjectives (and occasionally nouns) that convey the idea of having a particular tendency or property. Common examples include 'active' (possessing action or movement), 'creative' (having the tendency to create), and 'supportive' (inclined to support). When you encounter such words, note that they often stem from Latin verbs, where '-ivus' indicated a quality or capacity. The suffix can also create nouns referring to an agent or thing that carries out an action, such as 'captive' (a person who is taken or held). Context determines whether '-ive' is functioning as an adjective or a noun; typically, in English, '-ive' most frequently appears in adjectives. In practical usage, '-ive' words help you describe behaviors, actions, and properties efficiently and precisely. Avoid overusing them in close succession, as too many '-ive' adjectives can give writing a repetitive feel. If you need a more direct approach, you could rephrase or rely on verbs and adverbs. However, '-ive' remains a robust, concise option for articulating traits and tendencies across a range of contexts—formal, informal, or academic.
Alternatives
Other adjective-forming suffixes include '-ful' (meaning 'full of'), '-ous' (indicating 'full of' or 'characterized by'), and '-y' (often giving a slightly informal, descriptive twist). For instance, instead of 'active,' you might say 'energetic,' using a different root word altogether. If you’re looking for a noun form, sometimes '-er' (e.g., 'speaker') or '-or' (e.g., 'actor') may be more direct. Your choice depends on the nuance you want. '-ive' specifically highlights an inherent tendency or role, whereas other options might emphasize the action itself. Ensuring you choose the best suffix means matching the tone, context, and meaning you’re aiming for. When in doubt, consult a dictionary to confirm whether the '-ive' form of a word is standard or if alternative suffixes yield more natural-sounding results.
Writing
In writing, '-ive' words allow you to hone in on a specific trait or behavior, lending both clarity and focus. Whether you’re penning academic papers or marketing copy, adjectives like 'innovative' or 'responsive' demonstrate precisely what quality you’re spotlighting. For instance, describing a company as 'progressive' signals it is forward-thinking, while 'assertive' highlights a bold manner of communication. Such conciseness can make your text both powerful and refined. However, be mindful of over-relying on '-ive' adjectives; vary your sentence structure and vocabulary to keep readers engaged. Mixing in direct verbs and concrete nouns can balance the more abstract sense that '-ive' adjectives sometimes impart. Above all, aim for precision—select '-ive' terms that pinpoint the characteristic you need without muddying your message.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, '-ive' adjectives pop up regularly: 'He’s so talkative,' 'She’s very supportive,' 'They’re super creative.' These words sound natural and approachable, helping you zero in on someone’s qualities or tendencies with minimal effort. Too many '-ive' terms in one sentence, however, might sound a bit formal or overly descriptive, so spread them out. If you want an even more relaxed tone, consider synonyms without the suffix: 'He talks a lot,' 'She helps me out all the time,' or 'They have tons of ideas.' Striking the right balance between '-ive' adjectives and simpler vocabulary helps you sound both clear and engaging. Using '-ive' here and there, though, can sharpen your point with minimal extra words. Ultimately, you can adapt to your audience, letting context steer how often or how precisely you deploy '-ive' forms.
Etymology
From the Latin suffix '-ivus,' derived from '-ivus'/'-iva'/'-ivum,' which conferred a quality or tendency related to a verb’s action. Many '-ive' words entered English through Old French, particularly after the Norman Conquest, weaving themselves into the core of Middle English vocabulary. Over centuries, the suffix maintained its essential function: denoting that something exhibits or tends toward a specific trait. Whether applied to core Latin roots (like 'act' → 'active') or more modern derivatives, '-ive' has remained a productive and stable element in English. Its ubiquity underscores the lasting influence of Latin on scientific, scholarly, and everyday usage, underscoring English’s ongoing evolution while preserving a thread of continuity from ancient linguistic traditions.